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Science News Archive October 2020 - Page 41


Page 41 of 47

Experiments with twisted 2D materials catch electrons behaving collectively

Researchers at the University of Washington have discovered that stacked graphene bilayers can exhibit highly correlated electron properties. The team found evidence of exotic magnetic states and correlated insulating states with features resembling superconductivity. The origins of these features are attributed to quantum mechanical p...

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 6, 2020

WHOI-NOAA partnership tackles critical gap in climate knowledge

Researchers at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution have developed a machine learning-based framework to improve estimates of air-sea heat exchange in the Arctic Ocean. The project leverages remote sensing technologies and data from sensors, saildrone USVs, and satellites to validate satellite-based modeling of the Arctic region.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·DateOct 6, 2020

Infrared NASA imagery finds Chan-hom organizing, consolidating

Tropical Storm Chan-hom is consolidating, indicating a strengthening trend, according to NASA's infrared data. The AIRS instrument captured cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating strong storms with heavy rain potential.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 6, 2020
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Big drug costs for small patients with rare diseases, study finds

A new study found that orphan drug costs for children with rare diseases have increased by 65% over five years, with families facing significantly higher out-of-pocket expenses. The top three drugs driving the increase are used to boost height in children with growth hormone deficiency and are prescribed off-label for other conditions.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalHealth Affairs·DateOct 6, 2020

Earth grows fine gems in minutes

Research from Rice University found that certain cooling magmas can grow large crystals in just hours or days, defying traditional understanding of crystal growth. The study used advanced techniques to measure the chemical composition and growth rates of sample crystals, revealing surprisingly fast growth rates.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 6, 2020

This 'squidbot' jets around and takes pics of coral and fish

Researchers at the University of California San Diego have developed a squid-like robot that can swim rapidly and efficiently, taking photos of coral and fish in the process. The soft robot uses jet propulsion to maneuver and achieve speeds of up to half a mile per hour.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalBioinspiration & Biomimetics·DateOct 6, 2020

A timeline on the evolution of reptiles

Researchers created the largest available timeline of reptile evolution using CT scans and fossil data from over 1,000 specimens. The study found that major transitions in evolution occurred through many small bursts of morphological changes over 50 million years, contradicting a widely held theory on rapid evolutionary bursts.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 6, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Donors more likely to give to COVID causes when font matches message

Researchers found that donors were more likely to give when heartfelt messages matched the typeface, with warm messages in handwritten fonts and competence-based messages in computer-generated fonts. The study suggests that matching the font to the message can strengthen appeals and encourage donations.

SourceOhio State University·JournalInternational Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management·DateOct 6, 2020

Watch how cells squeeze through channels

Researchers observed cells moving through small channels to understand cell migration in 3D environments. The findings suggest that cancer cells may penetrate tissues and be blocked within small capillaries, potentially allowing them to metastasize.

SourceCell Press·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateOct 6, 2020

ASHG 2020 Virtual Meeting to showcase innovative research in human genetics

The ASHG 2020 Virtual Meeting brings together thousands of scientists, clinicians, and advocates to share knowledge on the latest developments in human genetics and genomics. The event features over 200 oral presentations, nearly 2,000 scientific poster presentations, and special sessions recognizing outstanding achievements.

SourceAmerican Society of Human Genetics·DateOct 6, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Could megatesla magnetic fields be realized on Earth?

Scientists at Osaka University have discovered a novel mechanism, microtube implosion, which generates megatesla-order magnetic fields. This breakthrough is three orders of magnitude higher than what has been achieved in a laboratory, with potential applications in materials science, quantum electrodynamics, and astrophysics.

SourceOsaka University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 6, 2020

NASA-NOAA satellite finds Hurricane Delta rapidly intensifying

Hurricane Delta's cloud top temperatures were as cold as minus 80 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating strong storms capable of creating heavy rain. The storm is expected to produce significant flash flooding and mudslides across the northern Yucatan Peninsula and western Cuba.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 6, 2020

Every COVID-19 case seems different; these scientists want to know why

A new study provides an in-depth look at how CD4+ T cells respond to SARS-CoV-2, revealing a novel T cell subset that may contribute to severe COVID-19 cases. The research also found that dysfunctional TFH cells can lead to reduced antibody production and worsen disease severity.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalCell·DateOct 6, 2020
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Novel testing platform designed for breast cancer cells

A Purdue University team has developed a magnetically moving cell culturing system to evaluate the impact of mechanical forces on breast cancer cells. The technology allows for the growth of 3D cancer cells in a new tissue environment, mimicking the physiological conditions found in the lungs during breathing.

SourcePurdue University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateOct 6, 2020
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Social media postings linked to hate crimes

A new study found that negative social media rhetoric about refugees in Germany correlated with an increase in anti-refugee hate crimes. The researchers used text analysis tools to investigate the relationship between social media content and offline behavior.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJournal of the European Economic Association·DateOct 6, 2020

Colorectal cancer treatment: the winning combinations

Scientists have developed a technique that quickly identifies optimal synergistic combinations of anticancer drugs, reducing tumour growth by 80% and outperforming chemotherapy. The technology, called TGMO, achieves results in under two weeks, paving the way for personalized, effective, and safe cancer treatment.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalMolecular Oncology·DateOct 6, 2020

Predicting sports performance with "big data"

Researchers developed a mathematical model to estimate key physiological parameters like maximal aerobic speed and endurance in athletes. The non-invasive data gathering method offers new possibilities for treatments and monitoring.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 6, 2020
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

California's August Complex largest fire in state's history

The August Complex of fires has grown to over 1,000,000 acres burned, making it the largest fire in California's history. The complex is 58% contained and poses a significant threat to structures in several areas, including Hidden Valley and Wildwood.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 6, 2020

Forearm artery reveals humans evolving from changes in natural selection

A significant increase in the prevalence of the median artery has been observed in humans since the late 19th century. This trend is attributed to genetic mutations or health problems during pregnancy, and may continue to rise, with a majority of people expected to have the median artery by 2100.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Anatomy·DateOct 6, 2020
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Effects of acute and chronic graft-versus-myelodysplastic syndrome on long-term outcomes following a

A recent study has shown that graft-versus-tumor (GVT) effect associated with limited chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) improves survival in high-risk myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) patients. For those with low-risk MDS, acute and chronic GVHD did not improve overall mortality or relapse rates.

SourceThe Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateOct 6, 2020

Efficient pollen identification

A novel method for automated pollen analysis has been developed by combining imaging flow cytometry with deep learning, allowing for accurate species identification and quantitative findings in just 20 minutes. The new tool was tested on 35 plant species and achieved an accuracy rate of 96%, outperforming traditional microscopy methods.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalNew Phytologist·DateOct 5, 2020

Statistical model improves analysis of skin conductance

Researchers have developed a new statistical model that accurately analyzes electrodermal activity (EDA) signals, providing insights into internal cognitive states and physiological processes. The inverse Gaussian model matches the physiology of sweat production and offers a principled approach to modeling EDA signals.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·DateOct 5, 2020
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Discovery holds potential for reversing vision loss

Researchers identified a compound that disables abnormal blood vessels, potentially reversing vision loss in patients with retinopathy of prematurity and diabetic retinopathy. The treatment targets only the abnormal vessels, sparing healthy ones.

SourceOklahoma Medical Research Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 5, 2020

Twisting magnetization with light

Researchers created tiny magnetization patterns known as skyrmions faster using laser pulses, which can have implications for magnetic data processing and storage. The findings clarified how the topology of the magnetic system changes in this process, contributing to stability but also making creation difficult.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalNature Materials·DateOct 5, 2020
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

'Repliclones' fuel perplexing persistence of HIV in the blood of some patients on therapy

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have discovered 'repliclones', large clones of HIV-infected cells that produce infectious virus particles, which can cause persistent viremia despite adherence to therapy. This finding has significant clinical implications and highlights a key barrier to developing a true cure for HIV.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 5, 2020

'Like a fishing net,' nanonet collapses to trap drug molecules

Researchers discover a new method for making nanoparticles that can efficiently capture over 95% of proteins, DNA, or small molecule drugs. The process uses a self-assembling polymer to create a nanonet that collapses into nanogels, trapping therapeutics with high efficiency.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 5, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Letter from leading researchers urges terminology update, shift in COVID-19 guidance

A group of leading researchers emphasizes the importance of clarifying COVID-19 terminology related to aerosols and droplets. They stress that public health officials should highlight the risk of airborne transmission and recommend improving ventilation and moving activities outdoors. By doing so, they aim to reduce transmission and pr...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·DateOct 5, 2020

New tools improve care for cancers that spread to the brain

Researchers at UVA Cancer Center developed a set of metrics to evaluate care provided for brain metastases, aiming to enhance treatment decisions and coordination. The findings, published in JCO Oncology Practice, will help hospitals improve their interdisciplinary treatment programs.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalJCO Oncology Practice·DateOct 5, 2020

Development of haptic touch sensor that works by static electricity

Researchers at KIST and Jeonbuk National University created a new type of two-dimensional material that generates up to 40% more power than traditional materials when subjected to static electricity. This innovation enables the development of self-powered touch sensors that can recognize touch signals without electricity.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalNano Energy·DateOct 5, 2020
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Grant to help researchers prevent apple fire blight in U.S.

A $779,000 grant from the USDA will support a four-year project to develop a comprehensive fire blight management strategy for American fruit growers. The research aims to improve application timing and efficacy of defense inducers and identify new genetic sources of fire blight resistance.

SourceCornell University·DateOct 5, 2020

Safe resumption of research is important, feasible

Researchers from Boston VA Healthcare System and Boston University School of Medicine describe a potential path forward for safely reopening community-based observational studies. They provide guidelines and best practices to mitigate risk to participants and staff while ensuring the continuation of research programs.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateOct 5, 2020

Scientists at NTU Singapore, MIT make electrifying diamond find

Researchers have discovered a way to engineer diamond's electrical conductivity without altering its chemical composition. By applying mechanical strain, they can reduce the bandgap and make diamond conduct electricity like metals, paving the way for novel applications in power electronics, quantum sensing, and more.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 5, 2020

Reactions to perceived broken promises lead to workplace stress for police officers

A study by the University of Birmingham found that police officers experience stress and anxiety when they perceive a violation of their psychological contract, leading to feelings of anger and frustration. The researchers also discovered that fairness and self-efficacy play a crucial role in mediating this relationship.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalInternational Journal of Stress Management·DateOct 5, 2020
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Dog brains do not prefer faces

Researchers used fMRI to compare brain activity in humans and dogs while watching videos of other animals. Dog brains showed no face-specific activation, unlike humans, but did display species preference for viewing a dog over a human.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateOct 5, 2020

Metallizing diamond nanoneedles

Researchers have discovered a method to convert diamond into a metal-like conductor by applying mechanical strain. This process, known as metallizing diamond nanoneedles, could lead to the development of new electronics and quantum sensing technologies.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 5, 2020

Spinach: good for popeye and the planet

Researchers at American University have developed a new method to create highly active and stable oxygen reduction reaction catalysts from spinach, which outperforms commercial platinum catalysts. The spin-based catalysts have potential applications in hydrogen fuel cells and metal-air batteries.

SourceAmerican University·JournalACS Omega·DateOct 5, 2020
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Mapping the chaos of movement

Researchers propose a framework for capturing mathematical structure underlying moving animals, finding unexpected connections to energy-conserving phenomena. Chaos theory suggests that animal behavior becomes increasingly unpredictable over time, with divergence occurring within a single second.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 5, 2020

Nanoparticles can turn off genes in bone marrow cells

Researchers create nanoparticles that can target specific genes in bone marrow cells, showing promise for treating heart disease by reducing inflammation. The approach could also enhance stem cell yields for patients undergoing transplants.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateOct 5, 2020